Molong Express 8 February 2024

1876 - 2024

AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

Ph: 0448 231 180 or 0490 734 650

email: molongex@bigpond.net.au www.molongexpress.com.au

THURSDAY 8 February 2024

Reporting 148 years of local news, views, & local ownership $2.00 inc gst

INSIDE

KERR'S CREEK WIND FARM A potential host landholder's view P2 - 5

MOLONG FLOOD STUDY Myths busted - the way forward - P8

Main Street woes P7

Talk of the Town : Did we get it wrong?

In Short: Back in October 2021 the Federal Government announced $1.1 million in grant money (through the Building Better Regions Program) for the upgrade of Molong's CBD. The grant was welcomed at the time. The 'Timing' was right.

Switch to 2023/24. Following the November 2022 flood - the rebuilding program for Bank Street/Watson and Hill Street businesses was starting to happen, for some. In full swing for others. Others still waiting/negotiating with insurance companies. The trauma of November 2022 still rested in the minds of business owners - the clean up alone, took its toll on even the most resilient. For the few not affected by the disaster - sitting and waiting for customers to return - and watching the efforts of their neighbours in starting all over again also took its toll.

'Timing' - in small business talk - is one of the most critical skills to develop and to understand when it comes to planning ahead.

The 'Timing' of the Molong Town Centre Activation Project works program has clearly further challenged local shops, businesses, entertainment places (or most) than was ever envisaged by any one of us.

There is no blame. There is no fault. It is what it is.

For whatever reasons Molong CBD is now experiencing a number of unplanned 'left fielders' that have come together in an 'untimely' way. However, there is a future - and a way forward.

The Molong township and district came together after the November 2022 disaster worked together - supported each other.

We can do it again. SEE P7

February What's On

School's Back - Drive Slow

Molong Shops/Cafes & Pubs Open in Bank & Gidley Streets, Watson 14 Valentine's Day 17 Banjo Paterson's Molong Poetry Brawl 25 Banjo Paterson - afternoon tea and entertainment at boree cabonne's historic woolshed

Cabonne Rides

Your local, dependable and friendly passenger booking service

Ph: 042 322 0443 or email bookings@cabonnerides.com.au Registered passenger booking service provider

Operating from Molong and beyond between 7am and 5pm most weekdays and Saturdays

Ideal for short trips in Molong to do shopping, drop off kids, attend medical appointments, visiting folks or longer trips to the airport, medical services, and shopping to/from towns like Orange, Sydney, Millthorpe, Blayney, Bathurst, Wellington, Forbes, Parkes, Cowra, Canowindra and Grenfell.

- $10 in Molong (within 3km from Bank Street) - $10 plus $2 per km further than 3km from Bank Street, BUT only charged one way per trip, e.g. Orange one way/return from Molong $70; Orange airport one way/ return from Molong $110; Wellington one way/return from Molong $150 - waiting fare $0.50 per minute Rare cleaning fee may be charged up to $100, if necessary booster seats are available for young children; restraints for children up to 12 months to be provided by the carer; a fold-up walker, fold-up wheelchair and assistance. Animals are welcome; unfortunately we do not offer fixed wheelchair services at this time.

Will quote to transport small parcels.

Payment can be made by cash, eftpos, Master or Visa card, Apple Pay, and digital wallets.

Ph. or text 0423220443 or email bookings@cabonnerides.com.au with your: first name, phone number, preferred pick-up date and time, pickup location, destination, number of passengers, and age of any children under 16.

Supply and lay Carpet, Vinyl, Vinyl planks and laminate.

Central west area.

No job too big or small.

No charge for travel.

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Mon - Thu 7.30 - 5.00 Fri 7.30 - 4.00 Sat 8.00 - 12.00 We deliver to you

Ph: 5325 5040 2 Bank St MOLONG

2

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

Environment : Kerr’s Creek Wind Farm

RES (Renewable Energy Sources) is proposing to develop a wind energy project approximately 21km north of Orange, between the communities of Kerrs Creek and Euchareena, in the Central West region of New South Wales. RES has been monitoring wind resource at the site since the beginning of 2020, and has conducted feasibility studies to determine the site’s suitability for the development of a wind energy project.

The Molong Express is pleased to print the articles provided by both the potential host landholder’s perspective as well as those provided to the Express by landholder’s and community members who are rejecting the proposal to date. Not forgetting any articles provided to the Express by the proposed developer, RES (Renewable Energy Sources), state and federal politicians, or the local councils (Dubbo Regional/Cabonne), or action groups.

In his column in the Express (Thursday 1 February 2024) Andrew Gee MP, Independent Federal Member for Calare, reports that he has held a site meeting with concerned residents and RES “my hope is that it’ll (meeting) will lead to more meaningful consultation and genuine attempts to meet the concerns of impacted residents. RES is now going to come back to us with a revised plan at some point in the not-too-distant future. I will keep the community updated as this issue unfolds”. Andrew Gee MP has also invited the Dubbo Regional Council to visit Molong to inform the community of their position on the development and also to share with the community how the $10 million the Council stands to receive as part of the development will be spent.” NSW State Member, Phil Donato, has also met on site with Voice of Cabonne Action Group and the potential host landholder’s group.

In the interest of readers and to understand this important proposal (the pros and the cons) we are providing space free of charge. This is an important community issue.

This week, we welcome potential host landholder, Jock Haynes of Kerr’s Creek.

Potential host landholder view

by Jock Haynes

“I thought it worthwhile to provide readers of the Molong Express a potential host landholder perspective.

I’ll start by introducing myself by stating that I will be one of the landholders who will be hosting turbines if the proposed Kerrs Creek wind farm proceeds and as such would benefit financially.

I live at Kerrs Creek (though the land we farm spans both Cabonne and Dubbo Regional Councils) and went to primary school in Euchareena so know many of the locals in and around both villages, as well as, for over ten years, being deputy captain, treasurer and secretary of the Euchareena Bushfire Brigade (whose area also covers the village of Kerrs Creek).

Many of you in Molong will recall that I was chairperson of the Cabonne Anti-amalgamation committee during the fight against the NSW state government’s proposal to merge Cabonne Council with Orange City and Blayney Councils. We ran a principled campaign based on community support throughout Cabonne Council and I believe that attempt to engage the entire community of Cabonne, along with the integrity we showed to tell the truth, using real data and analysis and without spin, was crucial to our success.

Some might also know me through my association with the Molong Magpies, who I coached for a couple of years, including for their premiership win in 2013, as well as being their treasurer for six years and writing the match report for the Molong Express for over ten years.

In addition to the above, I effectively run the West Macquarie Pest Control Group, based in Mullion Creek and which services the Mullion, Kerrs Creek and Ophir areas, and am a member of the Mullion Creek Bushfire Brigade, so will be familiar to many in that area also.

Our farm runs in between Burrendong Way and the main western railway line heading from Orange to Dubbo. It surrounds the village of Kerrs Creek on the western side of the railway line.

We operate on 6,000 acres, 4,700 of which is owned by the family, with another 1,300 being leased from a neighbour to the south, whose block crosses over to the western side of Burrendong Way and snakes back into the Caleula Hills.

We shear around 8,000 merino sheep annually, and produce on average 1,800 lambs, again merinos, each year. Astute readers will realise this means we run a lot of wethers. With losses, we end up selling, on average around 1,500 sheep each year, being made up of around 150 cull ewe lambs, the rest being older wethers and dry/older ewes sold into the mutton market.

In addition to this we currently run around 50 shorthorn cows, selling the steers at yearling age, and replacing these cows from the younger heifers, though these numbers were almost double prior to the most recent drought.

Overall, we run 1.5 to 2.0 DSE/acre. I can’t

state strongly enough that this is not the “prime agricultural land” that opponents of this project would have you believe. It is not the great cropping country of the Liverpool Plains, or even around Boomey, between the project and Molong. It is not the fattening country which the likes of Orange, Millthorpe and Blayney have, running up to 10 DSE per acre.

This property is slate/quartz country, with rolling to steep hills, deeper soils in the valley areas and creek flats (between the bar rocks), with rocky ridges and hilltops. It is grazing land which lends itself to fine wool sheep production.

We do grow some fodder crops and improve pastures in these areas, however, if I were to make an estimate, I would say that around 35% of the place would be arable, but even that amount requires much dodging of bar rocks.

It therefore drives me insane when I hear the opponents of the project describe this as “prime agricultural land”. They either don’t know and can’t be bothered to find out, or they are deliberately spreading lies, in either case using the misinformation to further their cause. These proposed turbines will be located on rocky ridges and we will continue to graze sheep directly under them when they are operational. I offer an open invitation to anyone who has already, or does so in the future, describe this as “prime agricultural land” to visit me and we will take a shovel and crowbar to the proposed turbine locations and see how far and easily we can dig!!!

Over the last six years, our wool income has been 65% of total income, merino sales, mainly into the mutton market, at 23%, cattle sales at 10%, with other income at 2%. As can been seen, running merino sheep constitutes the bulk of our production at 88%.

As many in the wool production industry would be aware, wool prices are in the doldrums and have been for some time. We are at the finer end of the micron range, with average microns of mid 16s. In 2018 wool prices were at an all-time high – ours averaged $28.61/kg – this allowed us to make a reasonable profit – the kind of money we should be making every year when taking into account the amount of assets employed. In the following five years, to last year, the average has been $19.05, with a high of $21.61 and low of $16.55. Last year (2023) was $18.64/kg. That is a reduction of 35% over that six year period.

And over those six years costs have increased significantly. For example, insurance has increased approx. 30% every year since 2018.

In that year, we paid approx. $8000 in farm/ building insurance – in 2023 that number was going to be $22000, before we started to lop buildings off the policy to at least get us back to the 2022 number of $17000.”

SALE

SALE

Lifestyle Property!

87 Marsden Street, Molong NSW Presenting for sale for the first time in 60 years. This property still has access to all the town and council services.

With the ability to subdivide the land, this property presents as an investment opportunity.

Sitting on 5 acres (approx.) the original homestead boasts a rich history of character and charm.

Featuring 3 good sized bedrooms, original kitchen, open living area and a second toilet outside for your convenience.

Whether you look to renovate or remove the homestead, there is no limit to what you can achieve with this property.

The tranquil ambiance of the area provides the perfect backdrop for a serene and harmonious lifestyle.

Original wood frame shed and fully fenced.

Opportunity Awaits in Yeoval Sale Contact Agent Open Saturday 10th February ‘24 11:00am - 11:30am Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

7 Obley Street, Molong NSW With three good sized bedrooms with built ins, front lounge room featuring a fireplace and air conditioner and the opportunity to create your own workshop in the garage with already established workbenches to help complete all those DIY projects, you will enjoy everything this home has to offer.

Once you step outside, you are meet with a great sized yard for that growing family. With plenty of room to take advantage of, you have a couple of garden sheds and a chock pen already set up.

For the investor, take advantage of the rear lane access and the sub divisional opportunity to increase your future investment.

Being situated directly across the road from Yeoval Central School is just one of the of the many advantages this property has to offer.

SALE

SALE

Opportunity for First Home Buyers

Ready and Waiting!

8 Cardington Street, Yeoval NSW The opportunities are endless with this 4-bedroom home situated in the heart of Yeoval. From first home buyers, investors looking to expand their portfolio or the growing family looking for extra room, this home is a must.

Entering the home, you are met with two bedrooms at the front of the house and an open living area featuring a wood fire to keep you warm on those cooler winter nights.

With a good-sized kitchen with breakfast bar, large bathroom with toilet and shower and even a second toilet in the sunroom for your convenience.

Stepping out the back, you are greeted with a secure, fully fenced backyard with rear lane access. From creating your own backyard oasis, to becoming selfsufficient with your own veggie garden, take advantage of the open space.

Sale Contact Agent Open Saturday 10th February ‘24 12:00pm - 12:30pm Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

54 Hill Street, Molong NSW Conveniently located near schools, parks and shops, this lovely brick home is perfect for first home buyers or families looking for comfort and convenience.

With 3 bedrooms that come off the main hallway as you enter through the front door, you will make your way down to the main living area, where the fireplace will keep you warm and cosy.

With a large undercover area as you walk out the back door, you will always stay dry when coming home in the rain or find yourself entertaining guests all year round as you enjoy the comforts of the covered patio/carport.

Other features of the home include a good-sized garage with workshop space, fenced back yard, and a veranda that wraps around the front of the house to catch that afternoon sun.

Sale Contact Agent Open

By Appointment Only Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Sale Contact Agent Open

By Appointment Only Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

3

Rural

Rural

Picturesque Views on 18 acres of Land

Rare Building Opportunity!

1864 Euchareena Road, Molong NSW

3972 Mitchell Highway, Molong NSW

Sale $850,000 - $900,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

This newly constructed home sits on a picturesque 18acre (approx) site overlooking the Tamburlaine Wines Vineyard.

110,000-liter rainwater tank Excellent fencing Water deed 84 sqm concrete pad, electrical and drainage ready 280 sqm under roof Small Dam 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom newly built home

9.5 HA - 23 acres 4km north of Molong, direct access to the Mitchell Highway Rich, alluvial flats with natural pastures Bell River frontage, 41 mg licence Excellent fencing Potential for an additional 10 acre crown leased parcel of land This property would be well suited to those looking for more room to run livestock or a rural lifestyle enthusiast looking to build a dream home.

Sale $585,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Rural

SALE Ready and Waiting!

54 Hill Street, Molong NSW

The Location is Hard to Beat, the Lifestyle is Yours to Enjoy “Mandagery Views” 852 Kurrajong Road, Manildra NSW 88 acres - 36 Ha -18 acres of highly productive Lucerne flats.

3 bedrooms with an office space that can be converted into a fourth bedroom as well as 2 bathrooms creates a contemporary home highlighted in the idyllic country setting.

The home has a bright modern open plan living and dining with cathedral ceilings, an impressive kitchen and bathrooms, as well as large bedrooms and a spectacular undercover alfresco area to enjoy the views.

Excellent water security with 32 megalitre irrigation licence, solar equipped bore.

4

Sale Price Guide $1,850,000 $1,950,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

Conveniently located near schools, parks and shops, this lovely brick home is perfect for first home buyers or families looking for comfort and convenience.

With 3 bedrooms that come off the main hallway as you enter through the front door, you will make your way down to the main living area, where the fireplace will keep you warm and cosy.

With a large undercover area as you walk out the back door, you will always stay dry when coming home in the rain or find yourself entertaining guests all year round as you enjoy the comforts of the covered patio/carport.

Other features of the home include a good-sized garage with workshop space, fenced back yard, and a veranda that wraps around the front of the house to catch that afternoon sun.

Sale Contact Agent Open

By Appointment Only Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

MAG News Congratulations from the Molong Advancement Group (MAG) to the Molong Australia Day awardees on being chosen for these significant 2024 local awards.

Sponsored by Cabonne Council, MAG members organised this year’s well attended event held at the Molong RSL Club.

This year’s local heroes are Citizen of the Year, Dusty from Molong Concrete Works, Youth of the Year, Lachie Hobbs, and Community Group of the Year, the Molong Show Society.

MAG would like to thank Cabonne Council for sponsoring the day by providing the awards and certificates, as well as paying for the catering.

MAG would also like to thank President, Mary Mulhall of the Molong RSL Club and Directors and team members who provided the premises/catering on the day.

Also, to the fabulous Geoff Tonkin

and Colina who provided the music entertainment.

To Milly Thurtell who led in the singing of Advanced Australia Fair.

To Paul Mullins who was MC for the event. To Helen Haynes (Molong Portrait Gallery) and Elizabeth Griffin (Molong Museum) who spoke about the current exhibitions and opened both for the event.

To Tania Culverson who delivered the Acknowledgment of Country.

To Kath Boyan for providing the delicious dampers and cocky’s joy for morning tea. To MAG and local volunteers who hopped in and helped on the day.

Most of all - a huge thank-you to the wonderful community members who came along and took part in Australia Day 2024.

Note: MAG donated the gifts for each awardee, and for Geoff Tonkin and Colina for their support with great entertainment.

(Above) Dustin Vandervelde, 2024 Molong Citizen of the Year, with his lovely wife and proud daughters after receiving his award.

Dusty (Molong Ready-Mix) worked tirelessly providing his own labour, and equipment helping to clean up from Betts Street to Bank Street after the November floods. Leaving his own business - Dusty and his workers then travelled to Eugowra where they spent 5 days helping with the clean-up there. Dusty and his family are major contributors to all things Molong.

(R) 2024 Youth of the Year Lachie Hobbs being presented with his award by Deputy Mayor of Cabonne, Jamie Jones; President of the Molong RSL Club, Mary Mulhall; and MAG Treasurer Sue Wild.

Lachie comes from a local long-time farming family synonomous with successful farming/agri business practices and hardworkers. Lachie is no exception known for his work on the family owned properties - and helping in the community. Lachie helped with the Molong flood clean-up continuing on to Eugowra with the Molong Ready-Mix team for 5 days.

From page 2.

Host landholder view

“The costs of crutching/shearing plus all the wool selling costs (commission, handling, testing, freight, wool levy, etc.) went from $12.58 per head shorn in 2018 to $18.15 per head in 2023, a 44% increase. The frightening part of this is these costs jumped from 17% of wool revenue in 2018 to 34% in 2023. And this is before a myriad of other livestock expenses (drench, fly prevention, lamb marking, etc) and other general farm costs (fodder cropping, pasture maintenance and improvement, wages for my employee, plant and machinery maintenance, fuel, motor vehicles, weed control etc). are taken into account.

Drought years of 2018 and 2019 reduced production, whilst subsequent years where spent rebuilding numbers meaning we were generally unable to take advantage of higher stock prices.

The end result of all of this is that over the last five years we have had an average operating profit of approx. $15,000 per annum. The important point to note here is that this is prior to paying myself and my father any “wages” for our time and input, or prior to making any distribution for capital invested. If this is taken into account (particularly using an assumed salary based on our experience and productivity) we would have averaged significant losses each year. As we do have to pull money from the business to live, we have therefore averaged negative cashflow over the last five years, and therefore an increase in debt. Higher interest rates on this higher debt are also not assisting the cause.

So how do we get ourselves out of this situation using this land?

• The wool price needs to improve significantly. Even getting back to the 2018 levels, whilst probably getting us into a much improved situation, is not enough – it would need for it to be even higher as costs have risen significantly in the intervening period. Wool is a luxury product and the biggest market is in China, which is posting the lowest economic and population growth for the last 30 years.

The higher interest rates world-wide post covid also means less discretionary expenditure.

This coupled with global instability around the middle east and Russia/Ukraine means that we cannot expect any major change in the medium term.

• Cutting recurring expenditure: Examining costs and looking for alternatives is part of our budgeting and purchasing cycle, but things like spreading fertiliser and lime to maintain the productive value of our land (such as it is) have already been eliminated for the past two years. The next costs that we could reduce in the short to medium term are around weed control. I estimate around 4-5 months of one person are spent spot spraying, boom spraying, slashing, etc. to control weeds such as serrated tussock, blackberries, briars, Bathurst burr, as well as invasive natives like biddy bush and prickly wattle. This would however mean cutting back my full time employee (he is a Kerrs Creek

local) to part time. Cutting other costs generally means cutting productivity.

• Changing our farming operations.

We can tinker around the edges of this e.g. a few more cattle, maybe a few cross bred lambs sold as suckers, however as mentioned above, the options here are limited due to the type of land. This is not fattening country so our ability to trade and fatten stock is restricted, and we certainly aren’t capable of broad scale farming.

Any of these other activities would take away from what the land is best suited for – wool production, so the alternatives may turn into a worse option.

• Looking for off farm income: I have done this prior to us purchasing and leasing more country over the last 11 years. For me to do so again would require employment of a farm manager, so the farm profitability would not change.

• Look for alternative on farm income.

The proposed wind farm fits this bill, the income from which would allow us to at least keep our heads above water and maintain the land in its current state.

This is not meant as a tale of woe. Farming has always been a bit boom/bust in Australia but there’s a good reason that wool production in Australia has fallen around 75% in the last 30 years and it’s not because we are making bucket loads of money from it.

If this project doesn’t proceed, then we would need to consider ways of reducing current debt/ interest levels, via selling a parcel of land. This in itself would need to be coupled with a reduction in our fixed costs, including labour, to match the reduction in income, so would still be a juggling act.

For us, once it became clearer the scope of the project and the number of turbines we might have, given the above financial conundrum, it was a no brainer to get involved.

To the opponents of the project I would say this – be careful what you wish for. Much of the steeper and rougher country to the east, heading down to the Macquarie River, was all productive wool growing country up to the dismantling of the floor price scheme just over 30 years ago.

Most of that country is now unproductive, covered in weeds and regrowth, has fencing in disarray and runs little stock.

It won’t happen overnight but if wool prices remain stagnant, the reasons for that “unproductivity” will head further west into our country and our current weed control problems would become yours if we are unable to maintain our properties the way we have been. If you want this agricultural land to remain as productive as you claim or want it to be, then the Kerrs Creek wind farm will be a step towards making that happen.” by Jock Haynes

Community Group of the Year, the Molong Show Society has been a pillar of the Molong community for over 159 years. A monumental history not forgotten by the 2023 committee who organised their first show last year - attended by a record crowd.

Congratulations and well done to each member and volunteers.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

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Talk of the Town Thank you to Cabonne Council team who have done their best to clean up after the Australia Day torching of the hedge/rose garden on the corner of Bank and Gidley Streets.

Damage which still disgusts local residents and visitors - and would have been an insulting find for the hardworking Cabonne Council gardening team.

Again, in the early hours of last Sunday morning, (3 February) at around 2.30 a.m. residents in the seniors Prunus/Bells Lane units (and around town) were woken to firecrackers going off.

There have apparently been other complaints from residents across from the Rec. who it is said one of whom had a firecracker going off in their front garden.

No-one seems to know who, when, where, or what details. And, we don’t know whether those involved were kids, teenagers, youth, adults, or even older adults. Maybe they were not local residents?

However, is it time in Molong to disregard the ‘who’ and positively move forward by asking sporting clubs, schools, etc to include in their training/curriculum something along the lines “your role in your community”? For adults ... maybe a poster designed to place in clubs, pubs, noticeboards etc? Perhaps we live in times these days where the connection of people to ‘community’ or being part of has become an unknown? Any thoughts?

Ideas? Rozzi 0490734650 or molonex@ bigpond.net.au

“Molong needs a festival”.

The Express team hear this comment regularly. But nothing happens ... no-one seems to know “what kind of a festival”. Or “Nah! We’ll leave it for someone else (or Council) to organise”.

Parkes has Elvis; Trundle has Abba; other places have their own festivals.

What about Molong? The Express is looking for ideas. Phone Rozzi 0490734650 or molongex@bigpond.net.au (Left) We love this idea. Last week in South Australia, an Adelaide beach in fact - thousands of Marilyn’s turned up for the annual festival. Apparently it is a HUGE success raising considerable $$’s each year for cancer research.

Molong doesn’t have a beach but we do have a swimming pool, a creek, a main street ... The crazier the idea - the better.

From PAGE 1 ‘Timing' plays a huge role in small business success.

As does the introduction of any kind of 'change' to a community.

Molong is no exception. The current outcomes of the Molong Town Centre Activation Project has become more challenging than any one of us considered.

The project, was announced in October 2021 when $1.1 million was secured from the Federal Government through the Building Better Regions Program.

Talks soon commenced, meetings, consultations and design/improvement discussions were held. Consultants were engaged. Cabonne Councillors gave the go-ahead.

In small business, we develop a sense - one that we can overlook if the 'Timing' is working against us.

Let me say - I am never convinced that there is a 'right' or 'wrong' - or a black and white approach to business decisions.

In small business, there are many shades of grey we deal with in our everyday lives. It’s how we have to operate.

Building a small business in any community, whether it be rural, regional or city based - the relevance of listening to one's own 'inner self' or that voice that questions us "are you going the right way?" is an important day to day component of ‘success’. Unfortunately, as small business owners there are times when we press ahead when that feeling- , that voice is questioning us to ‘tread wearily’ or ‘stop and take another look’. As small business owners, we sensed that the ‘timing’ of the MTCA project

during the quieter times of January/February would be a challenge that would be difficult. However, the grant money had to be spent on the project and deadlines reached - otherwise Molong would lose the money - and the opportunity.

Another aspect of small business decision making - perhaps an unfortunate one - is that we accepted that sometimes we have to work harder and seize the opportunities as they come. The never, ever, give up approach - although most were already jaded, tired, exhausted but prepared to do the right thing for the benefit of Molong.

Unfortunately, the ‘Timing’ of the project is not working for Bank Street and the wider community. And, certainly for travellers and tourists who are simply not driving into town to stop for meals, shopping etc.

The Express is not suggesting any blame towards Cabonne Council, the contractors of the works, the planners, consultants or each other. There is absolutely no purpose in this kind of 'blame game'. One that if we adopt can only cause negative divisions in the community.

Molong does not need this.

Right now, the Molong saying "it is what it is" comes to mind. We are here - today. What do we do?

May the Express suggest the following -

‘Molong Is Open For Business’. * We welcome local and district shoppers to return to Molong's Bank Street to shop, eat, support service business, be part of every business up and down Bank Street, Gidley Street, Watson Streets. *We ask MAG, growMOLONG and every other community/volunteer organisation in town, schools, etc to support 'Molong is Open For Business". *We ask Cabonne Council to reopen the Molong Caravan Park and promote this availability to relevant groups, clubs etc 'Welcome to Molong'. *We ask Cabonne Council to fix the stormwater flooding issues in Bank Street and surrounds. i.e. Provide the township with confidence. *We ask Cabonne Council to improve temporary signage to all entrances of town to show better directions to Molong's CBD during the works program, where to park, etc. *We ask Cabonne Council to consider a left hand turn lane from the highway into Bank Street. *We ask Cabonne Council to approach absent landlords in Bank Street to repair/clean up their flood damaged/unsightly buildings. *We gather as a community and organise an event, a festival, to reopen Bank Street i.e. we hold a street party.

* As a community we ask Cabonne Council to provide marketing and promotion $$’s to advertise/communicate with the wider region that

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024 7

The “Great Flood of 2022

Expert report provides hope - and dispels some myths

CABO

N OV E

● Not only the amount of rail but the time over which it fell is critical.

Had the amount of water which fell from that night’s cloud burst fallen over, say, the previous 12 - 24 hours runoff would have greatly minimised if nor eliminated major flooding. As it was, the water volume was dumped into an already saturated catchment in an hour or less.

● The road and rail bridges The report deals in depth with everyone’s bane of contention - the rail bridges. It concludes that the removal of both the road and rail bridges in combination with their raised approaches results in the greatest reduction in both the extent and depth of inundation in the Molong CBD. But the report suggests the impact (most times about .3 of a metre or less ).

It is not possible to adequately summarise the report here. Suffice to say that if this study doesn’t provide a pathway to real mitigation measures little else will.

DRAF

FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS

Technical Sub-Committee

Involves the compilation and review of existing data and the collection of additional data.

Flood Study (in progress)

Involves detailed hydrologic and hydraulic modelling of the existing stormwater drainage system at Molong.

CIL

MBER

2023

Molong Flood Study

T REP

OR T

FOR

PUBL

IC EX

HIBIT

ION

Established by Cabonne Council, and includes community groups and State Agency specialists

Cabonne Flood Risk Management Committee

Data Collection (in progress)

COUN

M OLO NG FLOO D S TU DY

by Paul Mullins

Some 50 locals attended a presentation by the consultants of the Molong Flood Study last Thursday night.

At the outset the Study represents probably the best examination of flood occurrence in Molong.

It examines in detail where the 2022 flood water came from, when it came and where it went - and why.

Causes and impact are backed up by detailed hydrological model, utilising the latest modern technology for assessing and measuring such events.

Anyone wishing to know, or offer opinions on what should be done to eliminate or mitigate Molong CBD flooding is urged to read the report.

Even if you skip all the detailed technical stuff you can read the conclusions with a feeling of confidence.

The report includes detailed assessment of such things as road and rail crossings, town drainage and the like.

Some interesting observations catch attention:

NNE

Job No : GL574 File: MF S_V1 _Repo

rt [Re

v 1.2]

Date: No Rev No vem ber 202 3 : 1.2

Flood Risk Management Study (future activity)

Flood Risk Management Plan (future activity)

Implementation of Plan (future activity)

The Flood Risk Management Study will determine options which will seek to reduce the impact of flooding on the community in consideration of social, ecological and economic factors.

Preferred flood management options will be publicly exhibited and the responses from the community incorporated in the Plan. The Plan will then be formally approved by Council following the public exhibition period.

Implementation of the Plan will allow Council to reduce the impact of flooding on the community through flood, property, and response modification measures. The measures may include structural works, planning controls, flood warnings, flood readiness and response plans, ongoing data collection and monitoring.

Pri nci pal: SA B Autho r: SA B/TDR

LEVEL OF PROPERTY DAMAGE EXPERIENCED AT MOLONG NOVEMBER 2022 FLOOD Level of Property Damage Number of Buildings in Each Category

Residential Commercial/Industrial Other Outbuildings Affected – Habitable 3 4 0 0 Damaged - Habitable 1 1 0 0 Damaged - Uninhabitable 13 26 0 0 Destroyed - Uninhabitable 1 4 2 2 MFS_V1_Report [Rev 1.2] November 2023 Rev. 1.2

ii

Lyall & Associates

Where to next ?

This is what the meeting attendees (and everone else in town) were focussed on). In the 10 of so major flood studies conducted since the 1980’s little has resulted - never going past the study stage in most cases.

Well, here’s what is intended to happen.

1. Council adopts the study at its March/April Meeting.

2. Consultants determine options which to reduce the impact of flooding on the community in consideration of social, ecological and economic factors. (by end of this year). For example, if a levy bank is indicated then where and how high. Who will be affected and what are the remedies for them (buyback, relocation etc) 3. Preferred flood management options will be publicly exhibited and the responses from the community incorporated in the Plan. The Plan will then be formally approved by Council following the public exhibition period.

4. Implementation of the Plan will allow Council to reduce the impact of flooding on the community through flood, property, and response modification measures. The measures may include structural works, planning controls, flood warnings, flood readiness and response plans, ongoing data collection and monitoring.

Lets say 2 - 4 years.

Of course implementation will likely need State/Commonwealth funding assistance.

Let’s say how many years?

Storm and Flood Insurance Inquiry Kicks Off In Short: Independent Member for Calare Andrew Gee fiercely advocated for the establishment of the probe, asking the Prime Minister in Question Time in May 2023 whether he would support an inquiry.

Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones came to Cabonne with Andrew Gee in July 2023 and after talking with residents and business owners of the flood affected areas - announced the inquiry.

The inquiry commenced on Wednesday 31 January 2024.

Thank you to Andrew Gee MP and Steve Jones MP, and the Albanese Government for establishing the inquiry.

“The experiences of storm and flood-hit residents, largely left high and dry by their insurers, will be shared at a parliamentary inquiry commencing tomorrow.

Over the next four weeks, the first public hearings in the ‘Inquiry into insurers’ responses to claims resulting from the major floods in 2022’ will take place.

“In the fourteen months since this disaster hit our region, we have heard many stories of heartache and heartbreak from local residents and business people who have had their homes and livelihoods destroyed,” said Mr Gee. “Communities like Eugowra, Molong, Manildra, Canowindra, Cudal and Wellington were devastated by the storm and flood event of November 2022.

“The rebuilding and recovery process has been made much harder by the cold-hearted and in some cases shocking response of insurers to policyholders.

The anger in our communities is white hot, and many other regions along the east coast of Australia, from south-east Queensland down to Tasmania, have been left reeling from the callous conduct of insurance companies.

“The reality is that there is a huge power imbalance between policy holders and insurance companies.

8

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

“At the end of the day, if a policy holder wants to fight a knockback from an insurer, they’re going to need to fork out big dollars for an expert hydrology report, a building report, and also a solicitor. If you’ve lost everything or your business is in ruins, there is just no prospect of fighting back.

“The stories of insurers trying to do the right thing are sadly few and far between.

“Australians expect insurers to be assessing claims in a generous and kind-hearted way, nothing less.

“Insurance companies don't just answer to shareholders, but also to the nation. They don't just have insurance contracts with our residents, they also operate with a social licence.

“We need to get to the bottom of what's happened here and make sure the pain that insurance companies have inflicted on our communities is not repeated in others.

I’m confident that this inquiry will shine a spotlight on what has happened to our local residents. I’m hoping this probe will be a watershed moment in the way that insurers deal with disaster-hit policy holders and that positive change can occur from the suffering and heartache that our residents have had to endure.

Read/Watch The Inquiry A program for the hearings can be found at: www.aph.gov.au/floodinsurance The public can watch a live video stream of the proceedings at: www.aph.gov.au/News_ and_Events/Watch_Read_Listen “I am expecting the inquiry to visit the Central West in the near future to hear firsthand from our residents,” Mr Gee said.

The inquiry’s Terms of Reference will cover the 2022 floods in south-east Queensland and northern NSW in February and March; in greater Sydney and the Hunter Valley in July; in Victoria, NSW and Tasmania in October; and in the central west of NSW in November and December.

Evidence was given by consumer groups at the first public hearing which will be held on Wednesday, 31 January.

For individuals and communities affected by the storm and flood events, the submissions portal and the online survey remain open. A link to the online survey can be found here: www.aph.gov.au/floodinsurance A program for the hearings can be found at: www.aph. gov.au/floodinsurance The public can watch a video stream of the proceedings at: www.aph.gov.au/News_and_Events/Watch_Read_ Listen”

SPORT: Local achievers Molong's Kevin and Sharon Costa brought Disc Golf to town and the Central West a few years back. The sport has since become increasingly popular with the club's events calendar supporting the Molong Golf Club grounds and facilities - and the town.

Last year, Sharon and Kevin were chosen as part of the Australian team to compete in the Asia Oceania Team Disc Golf Championships held in Taipai City. They brought home medals. Here is their story. Enjoy!

Molong Disc Golfers Claim Medal for Australia in Taipei.

Local disc golfers Kevin and Sharon Costa from Molongbased Central West Disc Golf Club were selected late last year as part of the Australian team to compete in the Asia Oceania Team Disc Golf Championships held in Taiwan.

This four-day event was held from the end of December into early January and saw many of the best disc golfers from across Asia competing in a two-stage competition in the picturesque Huanzhang Park in Taipei City.

The Australian Team consisted of 9 players from across the country, with Molong by far the smallest town represented, even more impressive that we had two representatives from our little town. Other players had travelled from the ACT, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth with many having never played together before, but needing to bond as part of the doubles match-play teams format.

Match play is a very strategic version of the game where, rather that counting total shots to determine a winner, the score is based upon how many holes you win.

With each player then having to nominate and tee off for half of the holes there is a lot of planning and follow up on each hole. In this format it is often the smarter and more precise player, rather than those with the longest throws who will prevail.

Following a practice to get familiar with the course, the first day of competition saw the Australian Team coming up against the strong favourites, hosts Chinese Taipei.

Each round saw 3 pairs competing against a matched opposition pair with Kevin and his partner competing against Chinese Taipei’s highest rated female and male Pro 40 players in the first pool round. Unfortunately, Australia went down in this round, but round 2 saw the team step up to beat the highly-rated Japanese side and place themselves in a strong position. A 3-0 win in the next pool round saw Australia finish equal second coming into the semi-finals.

(Above) Sharon putting everything into her approach on hole 12 in the Taipai finals.

(Below) Kevin runs a long shot during round 1. p Prior to the semi-finals taking place an All-Stars Team was formed to take on a Hong Kong development squad, with Kevin featuring in this event.

Paired up with Mikey, a Taipei local, they played an 18-hole round against a strong Hong Kong pair, and came away with the win by 5 holes.

Unfortunately, Australia faced a reinvigorated Japanese side in the semi-finals who were firing and proved too strong, taking 2 of the 3 matches to put Australia into a playoff for the bronze medal against Thailand.

“We had not imagined getting into a position where they would be competing for a medal, being rated far lower than most of the other teams and with Thailand having a strong reputation we knew that we were in for a fight” reported Sharon.

The medal round didn’t start well hole 17 the match was theirs and the bronze medal won when the highest rated Australian pair, consisting of by Australia. our top-rated male and female, were defeated. This put This was a great achievement for a very out-rated the pressure on the remaining two pairs to perform. side consisting of players who had mostly never played Fortunately, our second team, featuring Liam from Sydney together before and a proud moment for two of our local and Tim from China via Brisbane, were able to play some Molong players. outstanding disc golf and pick up a comprehensive win.

“It was an incredible experience” said Kevin “when With things squared up this meant that the pressure you first put on the green and gold it gives you a boost to was on the final pair consisting of Molong’s Sharon Costa push yourself. Our team captain Aaron spoke about the and her partner Jason McCormick from Perth. Against a fact that this shirt gives you permission to push yourself tough and competitive Thailand pair Jason and Sharon harder and higher than you have before and that is came to the second last hole with a one-hole lead following certainly what we did as a team. To come away with the some very smart, strategic play and when they claimed bronze medal was a very special moment.”

an tim C st

tre fe w H

C

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

9

75 years ago 6 February 1948 «-

:

WHERE TO BUY THE 'EXPRESS' 'THE

EXPRESS'

at

is

following

the

sale

on

Newsagents:

A. GRANGER, Molong.

Manildra LUNGAS, Cumnock.

HOGAN, B. S. BRUCHHAUSER, Yeoval.

A. L. MRS. CHAPMAN, Cudal.

F. W. DIXON, Eugowra E.

A.

J.

Kindly, place your order, restrictions newsprint sitate number

limit

strict of extras

a

as neces

the

on

printed ®

A

Molong's Location Big New Industry

Is Ideal

for

industrial

of

local

resources

That

»

Mr.

L.

L.

gineer As

f

behalf

on

this

trict

deposits

in

a way. big into shortly will organisation available £50,000

verted the to

company's development growth

The

major

industrial

ciated

the

by

~

in

lie

would

pany

Avould

con

over

he

interest

them into

get

possible,

as

that

full

in

was

market

a

as

the lias

directors

's

company

quote preliminary submitted

report the

The

situated

way) of

by

from the

Sydney,

and

are

chiefly and

area

primary

west

Molong

production

is

of'

miles 223 by road (Mitchell

Wales,

miles

New

rail

J

and

High

the

CRUSHING

agricultural

south

and

and borders station, Molong. railway the line.

Attached to the railway is a crushing loading dump plant on rail for situated siding discharging vehicles into rail from road materials rail. trucks for dispatch by way and Both the crushing loading plant situated on railway pro dump are and of several consisting acres, perty, for

which

the

nominal loading way siding

a company, pays The crushing plant

rental.

dump

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ern

boundary,

tained

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on

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Mitchell

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

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week

this

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to

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in

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in

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close

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since Molong last to regis weekend, according trations Post at Molong Office.

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at

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approach

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closed

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added.

club.

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from

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temperature Wednesday morning

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investigation

actual

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district

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maximum,

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Friday

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en

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night. for night

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games

in

plant

equipment

Mrs.

children, -Lynette, home returned last

Langdon,

N

is

installed

Ci

at

arrived

farmers

be

wheat

ARRIVE

said,'

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to

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grade

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of

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open to

will

acceptable

said.

1

Jim

Mr.

POWER

power

this

the

burnt

a

lation.

of

per

for installed

motor,

get

left last Cooper a few days in Sydney.

Set conducted The C.W.A. Younger a in the Rooms last social C.W.A. About 40 were night. young people music to supplied pre.sent.

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of

be

that

said:

Orange

Gadd

holidays

Dunn,

'There

is

Mrs.

L.0

opposition

enquiring

business

and

to

Mr.

clearance

week

three

Terry,

,

Mr.

is

cent,

this

Mesdames

are

will

makes

railway

commenced.

lie

There

decided

was

of

inter-town

Burgess

a

Mr.

by

by Mr. L. ing of the

Salvation

on

with

and

and

supplied by the the Railway Department through Council a at satis .Molong Municipal industrial A rate of charges. factory leva has transformer station 1,000 Electric

Sydney

McFarlane

ac

Barter.

Jennifer of Riddell Street,

Hyland,

for

local

'We re

Sydney

for

by

Holidaying

Dew

week,

extra

C.

be

the

In

were

the

of Bathurst.

Guest, their spending South Australia, Orroroo,

per expense

metal

left

jr.

would

Allen

Burgess

Jack

anuroach

That

xui

Carol.

of

will

morning

clearance

a

An

ion

District

they

After

un

of

daughter French,

trucks

possibility

a

Molong made

in

lu.ivt;

F.

Mrs.

distribution

Mr.

competition.

to

and

all

area, company into an expanding program en(ter minimum the cost for electrical

for

99.2 which

per

being

'

in

motor

output

of

involving

horsepower.

of.

under

satisfactory. now in

tons

M.

exe

conditions

same

the for crushing plant of industrial couragement

comprising

been

500

as

satisfactory

allowing

the by capacity

the

Arm

leaving

and

50

thus capacity, two crushers

creasing

been

could

than

Adjt.

the uu

and

silos

wheat.

is

obtains

Australia.

Sydney Mrs. by

trip.

under

driving

crushing

less

increased

of

pur

held

companied and baby

Mr.

expert

most

a

Mr. to

There

Street.

of

Dovey, planning South

the

Wednesday

40,000

MOLONG FOOTBALLERS TO ENTER ORpfiE COMP.?

Caragher. son with Gary is stay Carolyn, and Mrs. Mr.

parents, of .Gidley

accompanied

examined

conditions,

in

maximum

operating

!

been

-the

Incidentally,

i

that

Department, with option

years

der

and

The cent,

20

is

!

up without

indus subsidiary the com by

10 acres Mines

the

manney.

'

metal

area

quarry

[

behaved

further

pany.

The

units

'

pose.

'?i

has plant running

actual

a

a

as

for

The

level

Iligh

out

supervision.

crossing railway

Mitchell

and

to,

cuted

|

R. is

in

turned

on'

under

more

Hospi&l

leave K. Coomber holiday fortnights'

a

When

|

an

the

thoroughly

her

for

holidays

motor

and

new,

been

carried

that

about ceive

receive

second

bales Mr.

Mr.

of

a

out.

OF BAGS

BALES

Thirty

morning,'

(faq)

anything

'

the

as

available, trucked

30

Molong

say

not

soon

be '

40

?

Yeoval

Mrs.

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face

production.

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operation

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as

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area

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location

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TRUCKS ON MONDAY

re meeting public celebra centenary New in educatidn

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Molong

Molong is fortunate and in having purposes

mineral

The

garding

tions

INTENTIONS

of

BAGS ARRIVED TODAY;

PUBLIC MEETING IN MOLONG TONIGHT

EXPERT TELLS OF COMPANY'S The town

Molong Harvest

For

contact I

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10,

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Secretary.

REG’S BENCH An old bloke went to the doctor for a check-up. After examining him, the doctor said, Percy, I've got two pieces of bad news for you. First, you've got hepatitis.

The old bloke was horrified. Oh no, not hepatitis, he said, that's terrible. Not hepatitis, anything but hepatitis. Gawd Doc, don't tell me I've got hepatitis.

The doctor said: I'm afraid that's not all.

You also have Alzheimer's disease .

Again , the old fella was mortified. Not Alzheimer's. Anything but Alzheimer's.

Don't tell me I've got Alzheimer's. That's absolutely terrible. Oh well, at least I don't have hepatitis.

A rabbit walks into a pub and says to the barman, 'Can I have a schooner of beer, and a Ham and Cheese Toastie?'

The barman is amazed, but gives the rabbit a schooner of beer and a ham and cheese toastie.

The rabbit drinks the beer and eats the toastie. He then leaves.

The following night the rabbit returns and again asks for a schooner of beer, and a Ham and Cheese Toastie.

The barman, now intrigued by the rabbit and the extra drinkers in the pub, (because word gets round), gives the rabbit the schooner and the Toastie. The rabbit consumes them and leaves.

The next night, the pub is packed.

In walks the rabbit and says, 'A schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie, please barman.'

The crowd is hushed as the barman gives the rabbit his schooner and toastie, and then burst into applause as the rabbit wolfs them down.

The next night there is standing room only in the pub.

Coaches have been laid on for the crowds of patrons attending.

The barman is making more money in one week than he did all last year In walks the rabbit and says, 'A schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie, please barman.'

The barman says, 'I'm sorry rabbit, old mate, but we are right out of them Ham and Cheese Toasties.'

The rabbit looks horrified.

The crowd has quietened to almost a whisper, when the barman clears his throat nervously and says, 'We do have a very nice Cheese and Onion Toastie.

The rabbit looks him in the eye and says, 'Are you sure I will like it.'

The crowd's bated breath is ear WORD SEARCH

Solutions page 15

QUICK CROSSWORD

shatteringly silent.

The barman, with a roguish smile says, 'Do you think that I would let down one of my best friends. I know you'll love it.'

'Ok,' says the rabbit, 'I'll have a schooner of beer and a Cheese and Onion Toastie.'

The pub erupts with glee as the rabbit quaffs the beer and guzzles the toastie.

He then waves to the crowd and leaves....

NEVER TO RETURN!!

One year later, in the now impoverished pub, the barman, (who has only served 4 drinks tonight, 3 of which were his), calls time.

When he is cleaning down the now empty bar, he sees a small white form, floating above the bar.

The barman says, 'Who are you?

To which he is answered, 'I am the ghost of the rabbit that used to frequent your public house.'

The barman says, 'I remember you.

You made me famous.

You would come in every night and have a schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie. Masses came to see you and this place was famous.'

The rabbit says, 'Yes I know.'

The barman said, 'I remember, on your last night we didn't have any Ham and Cheese Toasties. You had a Cheese and Onion one instead.'

The rabbit said, 'Yes, you promised me that I would love it.'

The barman said, 'You never came back, what happened?'

'I DIED', said the rabbit.

'NO!' said the barman. 'What from?'

After a short pause, the rabbit said ...

'Mixin-me-toasties' An elderly couple had dinner at another couple's house, and after eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen. The two gentlemen were talking, and one said, "Last night we went out to a new restaurant and it was really great. I would recommend it very highly." The other man said, "What is the name of the restaurant?"

The first man thought and thought and finally said, "What is the name of that flower you give to someone you love?

You know... the one that's red and has thorns." "Do you mean a rose?" "Yes, that's the one," replied the man.

He then turned towards the kitchen and yelled, "Rose, what's the name of that restaurant we went to last night?"

Across 1 Plot (6) 4 Western US state (6) 8 Raid (5) 9 Pharmacist (7) 10 Comes back (7) 11 Soothsayer (5) 12 Solaced (9) 17 Performed in a play (5) 19 High and dry (7) 21 Small wood (7) 22 Structure supporting power cables (5) 23 Texas city (6) 24 Free of charge (6) Down 1 Hunting expedition (6) 2 Unorthodox believer (7) 3 Municipal leader (5) 5 Graceful and refined (7) 6 Imitating (5) 7 Dessert (6) 9 Usual (9) 13 Mrs. Guy Ritchie (7)

14 Close-fitting Elizabethan jacket (7) 15 Brought up (6) 16 Handsome youth (6) 18 Spin round (5)

20 More mature (5)

3 A seer I heard (3) 4 County with a fringe on top? (6) 5 Replacement for paper star (5,4) 6 Indicate the precise moment (5) 7 Comedian displaying French shrewdness?

(6,6) 8 Chaotic parts may be disastrous (12) 12 Something lacking in

brief season in America (9) 16 Was fast listener held transfixed? (7) 17 Comprehend six feet (6) 19 Marbles man - Nigel, possibly (5) 22 One gets nothing for it (3)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Across 1 A couple of pence soothes and pacifies (8) 6 Greek god - of use in the kitchen (3) 9 Stone and silver devoured (5) 10 More willing to pass over and back out? (7) 11 Performer taking part when taking part is tedious (7) 13 Spare one of the crowd (5) 14 Two cats in a drum?

(3-3) 15 Conflict observed in a European capital (6) 18 Some lover totally unconcealed (5) 20 She might have a part in current Hair production (7) 21 It's nonsense making a pig clean (7) 22 Trunk or tangled roots (5) 23 Is able to provide a container (3) 24 Drink or meal done badly (8) Down 2 Ghost seen in Hampton maze (7)

SODUKU Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9, with no number repeated.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024 11 11 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 24 February 2022

TRADES & SERVICES ACCOUNTANTS

BUILDING / CARPENTRY

Mark O’Donahue Home Maintenance

CONVEYANCING

• Carpentry • Painting • Tiling • Plastering

MARGOT SAWYER

CONVEYANCING

Licence No: 1033852

2/67 Bank Street, Molong NSW 2866 PO Box 174, Molong NSW 2866

General Repairs & Maintenance No Job too Small !

Ph: 0437 218 930

Ph: 02 6366 8222 Fax: 02 6366 9273

E: margot@margotsawyerconveyancing.com.au

CONCRETE / LANDSCAPING PRODUCTS

CONCRETE

MO

Picton Bros Panelspan

SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR OVER 40 YEARS

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6366 8448 Lic. MVRL45372

Watson Street MOLONG

T 6366 8280

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• Glass Rooms • Patios • Cladding • Carports • Recreation Rooms • Enclose existing verandahs

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G R EA D Y M IX ED

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N LO

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

» Switchboard Upgrades » Lighting & Power » Appliances » Smoke Alarms » Sheds » Test & Tagging » Emergency Call Outs AVAILABLE 24/7

Recieve a Complimentary Electrical Safety Health Report Rest easy knowing your Home is safe & sound! Valued at $149!

TROY BARRETT ELECTRICAL Servicing Molong and the Central West

0407 274 358

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FUNERAL SERVICES

We wish you a Merry Christmas

6361 7777 6362 3751

PACKAGING

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NORMAN J PENHALL FUNERALS Serving the Molong District PROVIDING 24 HOUR 7 DAYS SENSITIVE, DIGNIFIED & PROFESSIONAL CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST PRE-PAID AND PRE-ARRANGED FUNERAL SPECIALISTS, RESPECTING ALL DENOMINATIONS email: mail@penhallfunerals.com.au

Book Boxes | Tea Chests Bubble Wrap | Glass Jars Packing Tape

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TRANSPORT

B-Double Livestock, Hay & General Freight Matt Knott

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TREE SERVICES

Country Tree Services Garry Livingstone

• Arborist • Tree Felling • Trimming • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured • 30 years experience

0408 655 811 WELDING

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PEST CONTROL

Sam & Jacqui Duncan

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

13

CLASSIFIEDS

PHONE: 02 0448 231 180 • Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

FOR SALE LAND FOR SALE Manildra - on the edge of town.

6.9 hectares.

Zoned for large lot residential.

Could be subdivided into 15 blocks. $60,000 Kevin 63645202

Molong Historical Society Special Event

Between Manildra and Molong.

2 dams, 1 well 48.57 hectares in 3 equal titles $700,000

Celebrate in style

Kevin 63645202

FARM FOR SALE

GARAGE SALE

SUNDAY 11 FEB 8 am 104 Market St MAKE AN OFFER SALE LOTS OF PICKS No parking on site or on shered lane, Please park on Market or in End St

Sunday 25 February 2024 2.30 p.m.

Poetry by the sensational Mel and Susie (past Australian Champions) Enjoy local performers

Relax, Enjoy Win a Meat or Vegie Pack Bill & Bob’s Sunday “Market Day” Raffles @ Kim’s Freemasons Hotel 2 pm

Mark Oates reciting Banjo’s work

Sunday 25 FEBRUARY 2024

Geoff Tonkin Bush Music

Tix sold before 2pm 3 for $5 8 for 10

$30 per person For more information and to book in phone Sue Milne 0400 425 015 or

10 Raffles to be won Sunday Roast Packs, Breakfast Packs and more.

Elizabeth Griffin 0437 868 595

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

1st Sunday of the month Molong 11am 3rd Sunday 9am Manildra 11am Molong 5th Sunday 10 am Molong 63 668 218 0411 885 004

Anglican Parish of Cudal-Molong St John’s Molong Every Sunday 10.00am

Communion with Kids Church - If available (Cnr of Edward & Bank Sts, Molong)

Communion with Kids Chat (Corner of Wall & Toogong Streets, Cudal)

St Luke’s Manildra 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 10.00am

Communion with Kids Chat (Packham Dr, Manildra opposite Old Orange Rd)

St Alban’s Toogong 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month 3.00pm CLAIM THE DATE for 2024!

February 13 Probus Molong Meet 10am @ RSL followed by Lunch /Movie Manildra 17 February Banjo Paterson Molong Poetry Brawl, Freemasons Hotel 25 Banjo’s 160th Birthday celebration with afternoon tea and a rare opportunity to visit the historic woolshed @ Boree Cabonne (Cudal) Time 2.30 pm March 7 Molong Men’s Shed 12 Probus Molong Meet @ RSL 10 am AGM April 4 Molong Men’s Shed 9th Molong Probus Meet @ RSL 10am May 2 Molong Men’s Shed 14 Probus Molong Meet 10 am @ RSL June 6 Molong Men’s Shed 11 June Probus Molong Meet @ 10am Molong RSL July 4 Molong Men’s Shed 9 Probus Molong Meet 10am @ RSL August 1 Molong Men’s Shed 13 Probus Molong Meet 10am @ RSL September 5 Molong Men’s Shed 10 Probus Molong Meet 10am @ RSL October 3 Molong Men’s Shed (Annual General Meeting) November 7 Molong Men’s Shed December 5 Molong Men’s Shed Send your upcoming events to molongexpress@bigpond.net.au or phone 0490734650 or 048231180

14

UNITING CHURCH

St James’ Cudal 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month 3.00pm

Banjo Paterson’s 160th Birthday Country afternoon Tea Party in the recently refurbished historic Woolshed @ Boree Cabonne (Cudal)

CHURCH NOTICES

Communion with Kids Chat (Forbes Street, Toogong - top end)

9.30 - 11.30

MOLONG COMMUNITY CHURCH Australian Christian Churches Contact Ps Deon Stapelberg Ph 0498 659 703 For meeting details

Sport

CRICKET

Molong Golf

by Narelle Campbell

The Ghostwalker Only eight players on Friday for the first of the nine hole Ambrose chicken run events for the year. Troy Warner and I won the chooks although I was just along for the ride and didn’t contribute much to the score.

On Sunday there were thirteen players plus Bell (who apparently didn’t play) for a two person Ambrose event. The best score before handicaps were deducted were Troy and Balley but after handicaps were applied the winners were Stubba and Blue. Stubba seems to be frequently in the winning team with his high handicap.

The branch in front of the eighth tee copped a hammering with both Harry Philpott and Doug Watson giving it a workout. Not good when they’re both on the same team. Harry’s golf ball hit the branch that hard he hoped it had broken the branch off. Not to be so.Now he’s threatening to cut it down so he doesn’t hit it again.

I’m not saying Harry played badly but if he grew tomatoes they’d all come up sliced.

It’s called golf because all the other four letter words were taken but I heard a lot of those “other” four letter words out there today.

I’m not sure if you saw on the news on the weekend where retired American Gridiron player Tom Brady was playing a golf shot in a big pro-am golf event in America. Whoosh, the swing looked good. Whack, the sound of the club on the ball seemed great but the tee shot trickled about ten metres. That was Matt Philpott’s shot on the eighth tee on Sunday.

Just as well his golf partner managed to conjure up one of his few good shots and get them out of trouble.

Thanks to Matt Earle for mowing the fairways on Saturday. It must have been hot but he did a great job.

Honestly, my brother-in-law doesn’t know when to keep his mouth shut. His wife told him that women are better at multitasking than men. So he told her to sit down and shut up.

She couldn’t do either and now he reckons he’ll be unable to walk for at least a week.

The twilight nine hole two person Ambrose event in being played again on Friday, 5.30pm for 6pm.

Sunday morning as usual, 8.30am for 9am.

Everyone welcome at both events. It’s very casual and great fun.

The Molong Fishing Club has started 2024 with a very busy January.

On January 4 the club and associates restocked the Molong Creek with 6,700 Yellow belly {Golden Perch} and 1,700 Murray Cod fingerlings. This activity ensures the future of fishing along Molong Creek.

The club held its 2023 presentations on 13 January with a spit roast BBQ and assorted salads.

The event was well attended and the awards went to the following members.

Senior Club Person - Shane Harvey Junior Club Person - George Squires Catch of the Year - Nicole Turner Special awards for service

to the club in 2023 were given to Michael Fitzgerald, Shane Harvey, Michelle Gianisis, Mick Philpott and Narelle Campbell.

Nicole Turner was made official fire warden for the camping trips.

On Australia Day, the club conducted Yabby Races at the Freemasons Hotel. It was a very entertaining and successful day.

Thanks to the Freemasons for hosting the event and ongoing support.

The next planned event is a trip to Wisemans Ferry on the 15-16 of March. Members are to book their own accommodation at the Del Rio Riverside Resort. The club will provide catering for the event.

Getting ready to release some 8,000 fingerlings into the Molong Creek 4 January 2024

Yabby Races at the Freemasons 26 January 2024 - a successful and well supported annual event

Molong Disc Golfers Claim Medal for Australia in Taipei P9

Nicole Turner, George Squires and Shane Harvey at the club presentation 13 January 2024

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

15

‘Willunga’ 548 Emu Swamp Road, Orange I Location, Production and Tranquility The property ‘Willunga’ spans over 107.5 hectares.

• Architecturally designed solar passive home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a study, and modern amenities • Energy-efficient with double-glazed windows, underfloor heating in bathrooms & laundry, and wood fire and split-system heating and cooling • Water from two 7500 gallon rainwater tanks • Steel cattle yards with a loading ramp, crush, and holding/working yards

For Sale Contact Agent Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Kurt Waterford 0439 642 390 eldersem.com.au * Approx.

40 Strachan Road, Orange I A Dream Property Awaits • 10 acres* with excellent sheds, water security and modern home • 20* min from Orange CBD, 3.5* hours to Sydney CBD • Open plan design, four bedroom, two bathroom home surrounded by established gardens • Oversized heavy duty 4-bay shed - ideal & fit for purpose to operate a range of businesses. Fully enclosed sunroom, woodfire place, water, power, and a full bathroom

271 Yuranigh Road, Molong NSW I Modern Living and a Terrific Location

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 8 February 2024

For Sale $1,850,000 Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Katie Christopherson 0400 637 559 eldersem.com.au * Approx.

4A 2B 3C

Conveniently located only 20* mins from Orange or 5* mins back to Molong. Sitting on a very productive 5 hectares, this property is more than suitable to run a few livestock to help supplement an income.

If you’re looking for a nice bit of space, modern living and a terrific location, then this property is for you.

• Modern 4 bed, 2 bath, steel frame, brick home with fresh paint and carpet • Large open plan living area with option for a second living space or office • Kitchen consists of double oven and large island bench • Wood fire, and reverse cycle split systems for year round comfort • Situated on 5 hectares with established trees/garden • 15m x 6m 2 door, 5 bay sealed shed with power and concrete floors • Four fenced paddocks, three with water troughs connected with poly pie from the 130,000 litre tank

16

4A 2B 8C

Auction Friday 8 March 10:30am Venue 152 William St, Bathurst Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Katie Christopherson 0400 637 559 eldersem.com.au * Approx.